Tompkins Township

Tompkins Township

THIS township is situated in the middle of -the western row, and is in number 10 north, of range 3, west. It is bounded on the north by Hale, on the east by Lenox, on the south by Ellison Township, and on the west by Henderson County.

A meeting was held by the citizens for the purpose of establishing a township government, April 4, 1854. Nathan Carr was called to the chair ; Orrin Lamphere was chosen Moderator, Ransom Tinkharn and Seth Smith, Assistants ; T. W. Beers and Daniel M. Smiley, Clerks. The result of the vote was as follows : For Supervisor, Joseph Tinkham ; Clerk, Daniel M. Smiley; Assessor, James H. Martin;' Collector, John L. Hanna; Justices of the Peace, William Hanna and James L. Rusk; Commissioners of Highways, Seth Smith and T. F. Hogue ; Consta- ' bles, H. R. Norcross and John L. Hanna; Overseers of the Poor, William Norcross and Orrin Lamphere.

John Quinn was the first settler to stake out a - home in the township, but he pulled up his stake in a short time and moved to other fields.

Samuel Hanna and family and Wilson Kendall moved in, in 1830, and made claims, the former on section 5, and the latter on section 6. The Kendalls lived in the township several years and then moved to Oregon. Mr. Hanna's family consisted of a wife and nine children : William, John, Isabella, Elizabeth, Miles, Samuel, Jr., Green, Mary and James. Elizabeth was married to Robert Hutchinson, and Mary became the wife of Henry Creswell. They were a remarkable family, especially noted for their benevolence and charity. Mrs. Hanna was always ready to aid the poor and the sick, and her hand was ever ready, and her purse open, for charitable purposes. The family were wealthy, and she had plenty of means to second the promptings of her generous heart. Mr. Hanna and his wife died at the old homestead at an advanced age, beloved and mourned by all who knew them.

families, came in the same year. James Gibson located on section 7. He was a good citizen, a successful farmer and accumulated for his family a fine property. He and his wife died at the old farm, where his son, John K., now lives. (See biography.)

The Creswells were from Ohio, and came to the township with six children, James, Hannah, Mary, Henry, Rachel and Rebecca. Hannah died before marriage; Rebecca was married to William Hanna, eldest son of Samuel Hanna. She is also dead. Mr. and Mrs. Creswell died some years ago at the old place. Mr. Creswell was a very able and intellectual man, having no superior in the township. Before he came to this county he was a member of the Ohio Legislature. James Creswell married Mary Ann Woods, and is now living in Henderson County. Henry married Mary, youngest daughter of Samuel Hanna, and is living in Des Moines, Iowa. Rachel was married to J. M. Woods, and both are still living.

Zachariah M. Davis located in the township soon after the Gibsons, and near their farm. They are now living in Nebraska. They had two children, Joann and Martin. Joann married Lew Leslie, and is dead ; Martin is still living.

Samuel Hutchinson came in, in the spring of 1833. He is recently deceased, in Momnouth. In 1835 Joseph and Ransom Tinkham, from New England, with their families, came in and settled in the lower tier of sections, where they lived for many years. Ransom is dead, but his family are living in Kirkwood. Joseph is also living there.

During this year and the following, Judson Graves, DeWitt Phelps, A. P. Carmichael and C. H. Warren moved in, making, with those who had preceded them,quite a little settlement, and giving'a neighborly aspect to the new country. With the good start thus made, the township increased in population and developed very rapidly.

Isaac Ray, from Kentucky, wife and six children - Talitha, Eliza, John, Isaac, Jr., Josephus and Mary Jane, moved in, in 1837, locating on section 7. The children are all dead but two, Talitha and Josephus. The parents died at the old home. (See biography of Josephus.)

Mr. Banker. Mr. Creswell was the enterprising man who first put up a grist mill in the township. It was located near Mr. Hanna's place, and was operated by ox-power, the oxen working a tread mill.

The first church built in the township was at Kirkwood, and the first service held in it was by Rev. Jas. Brace, afterwards of the United Presbyterian Church. Prior to this, religious meetings were held in private houses.

The eastern portion of this township is undulating prairie, the northwestern part is somewhat broken. It is watered by South Henderson Creek and its tributaries. A part of the township is liberally timbered, particularly along the water courses. The topography of the township is attractive, and the entire area is very well adapted for farming and stock raising, and both of these branches of husbandry are carried on well and successfully.

The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad was constructed through the township in the early part of 1855. It enters the township near the northeast corner and passes out on section 18.

The people do their trading chiefly at Kirkwood,^ which is a thriving town. In 1880 the township, as | shown by the census, had a population if 1,994, and there has been since that time a small gain.

According ,to the County Superintendent's report for the year ending June 30, 1885, there were ten school districts in the township, with one graded and nine ungraded schools. All the buildings were frame. The school property was valued at $7,000. Of persons under 21 years of age, there were 725, of whom 548 were of scholastic age, 426 being enrolled. The highest wages paid teachers was $85 and the lowest $25 per month. The lax levy for this year was $4,7 25.

From the Assessor's report for the year 1885, the following items have been obtained. Number of acres of improved land, 21,794 ; number of acres of unimproved land, 388; value of improved land, $349,700: total value of lots, $71,740 ; number of horses, 883; cattle, 2,047; mules and asses, 44; sheep, 85; hogs, 2,922; steam engines, i ; carriages and wagons, 349; watches and clocks, 214; sewing and knitting machines, 102 ; pianos, 10 : melodeons and organs, 24; total cash value of personal property, $155,985.

HIS charmingly located town was started a short period before the advent of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, and was first called Lyndon. It was, however, incorporated Aug. 5, 1865, under the act of the Legislature as Young America. At the election, J. K. Cummings, J. B. Sofield, A. Carmichael, O. Lamphere, J. L. Bachelor, were chosen Trustees. At a meeting of the trustees, August 15, for the purse of completing their corporate government, T. Cummings was chosen President of the Board ; B. Sofield, Secretary; and J. L. Bachelor, Clerk, t a meeting held August 5 ist, the boundary lines ere determined, as follows, viz. : Commencing 80 )ds north of the southeast corner of the northwest quarter of section 9, 10 north 3 west ; thence west one mile, to the northeast quarter of section 8 ; thence south one mile, to the center of the west line of the northeast quarter of section 17, thence east, to the center of the east line of the northwest quarter of section 16 ; thence north, one mile, to the place of beginning.

A petition was presented to the Board by a majority of the legal voters, requesting that the name be changed from Young America to that of Kirkwood, which petition was granted, May 14, 1874, with but one dissenting vote.

It was first platted by David Irvine and A. G. Kirkpatrick, the plat containing 80 acres on the east side of the southeast quarter of section 8, and was filed for record Oct. 20, 1854. There were 12 subsequent additions to the town.

Carr and Rankin had the enterprise to start the first store in the town, which was located on the corner of Kirk and Cherry Streets. Knowles, Ray & Chapin opened the next store, on the north side of the railroad track. The first building erected here was for a hotel, by the railroad company. This was also located on the north side of the track and was used for a restaurant. W. W. Gilmore was the first Postmaster, receiving his commission soon after the railroad station was established. S. C. Smith erected the first dwelling house. It was located in the northwest part of the town.

The first school taught in the town, then called Lyndon, was by David Abby, over a warehouse. Soon after this school was opened, a school-house was eVected, which was located on the north side of the railroad. Its completion was made the occasion of a celebration.

Having thus secured so favorable a start, the future growth of the town was assurred. Messrs. Chapin, Houlton & Davis established a private banking institution at an early day and are now doing a large business. This is one of the reliable banking houses in the county. After the inauguration of the National Banking system, the First National Bank of Kirkwood was established, which is doing an extensive business. The mercantile line is well represented here, and there are many very fine stores, some of which would be very creditable to any city.

The Kirkwood Roller Mills, by Davidson & Sons, is one of the manufacturing industries which give credit to a town and materially aid in its development. It has been running now about 22 years, and under the roller system about four years, retaining one burr for grinding middlings. The capacity of this mill is about 40 barrels every 24 hours. This firm is constructing a large brick building near the track of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, into which they intend to put new and improved machinery, which will give them a capacity of 100 barrels per day, They expect to be able to start this mill by the first of June, 1886.

In natural advantages of location, Kirkwood has no superior in the county. In walking about the town, one is impressed with the fact that the art of man could not construct more beautiful or desirable sites for dwellings. The citizens, with commendable skill and taste, have enhanced the natural attractiveness of these grounds by setting out shade-trees, which have grown into grandeur, laying out broad streets, and erecting elegant and imposing residences. Much of this, however, if not all, is lost to the trav- eler who only passes through, stopping, it may be, for a night at the hotel, and in consequence of which Kirkwood has obtained rather an unenviable reputation. If the people would fence in, or fence out, the depot, with its immediate surroundings, it would give the traveler at least the luxury of imagining that over or beyond this fence there might rest one of the most attractive towns within the Military Tract.

The present officers of the village are: F. M. Davidson, President of the Board of Trustees ; J. C. Betzinger, C. H. Mundorff, J. C. McLinn, and C. A. Carmichael, Trustees; E. Schenbarger, Clerk; W. K. Gamble, Treasurer ; John Effort, Marshal. The population of the town is about 1,100.

Mineral Springs

About a mile from the corporate limits, is located the Mineral Springs of Kirkwood. This place is a favorite refort for tourists, and the waters are believed to contain medicinal qualities. Whether this is really so or not, it does not matter, as long as the

Snpression is made upon the imagination of the visors that they do. However, the end is accompshed. People come here, have relaxation, change of air and exercise, and feel better. They drink a treat deal of water - as people do at all wateringplaces - and imagine they are effected by it. Possibly they are. They would feel the same effects, however, at any place, by drinking the same amount of pure water. One advantage of this place at least, is that that there is plenty of water, and it is easily obtained, having a constant flow; and there is not much danger of the visitors drinking the springs dry, though it would seem at times to a healthy looker-on that there was a deep laid conspiracy energetically executed to accomplish this.

These grounds are very pleasantly located and are naturally attractive. A small museum has been established, which contains some very fine and rare fossils and geological specimens that are of interest to the scientist as well as the naturalist. If the grounds were more extensively improved and a good large hotel located here, it would be a very agreeable place for a person to spend a few weeks in idleness and gossiping, providing, always, that they have nothing else to do, or can make no better use of their time.

Miscellaneous

the mail to the people of this town. He held the office of Postmaster for 12 years and was followed by George Williams.* Succeeding Mr. Williams was W. M. Galbraith, John E. Willets, E. L. Senberger, J. B. Sofield, and N. Gordon, the present incumbent.

The town of Kirkwood has an excellent graded school, with very fair school buildings. J. C. Stockton is Principal ; Mattie Armstrong, First Assistant ; " Cynthia Shatby, Second Assistant; Nellie Willets, primary department. The south school is under the charge of Miss Laura Brown. Enrollment about 250.

The location of the cemetery is one of exceeding beauty, the site embracing about eight acres, and it is situated about one mile west of the town of Kirkwood. Originally there were only three acres in the site. John Ramsel, W. D. Johnson and J. L. Bachelor bought the land in 1856, organized an association and had the land laid out for cemetery purposes. They afterwards conveyed their rights to the town, under which control it now is. Subsequently the corporation extended the grounds by purchase. They are embellished by shade-trees and some very neat and artistically designed monuments. Most of the lots are well cared for.

The people of Kirkwood have sought to protect themselves from the ravages of fire, and have established a very good fire department. It consists of two companies, the Excelsior, which is a hook and ladder company, with Thomas Calahan as Foreman ; T. S. Kyler, as First Assistant ; George R. Everett, Secretary; with a membership of 20. The Champion Company runs a chemical engine, which is always ready for use. E. H. Gilmore is Foreman; C. O. Carmichael, Assistant; Chas. Mundorff, Secretary; S. F. Allen, Treasurer; J. P. Davidson, Manhead; and William Sofield, Nozzleman. This company has 14 members. J. C. Ely is Chief Fire Marshal.

Kirkwood has a most excellent band, of which Henry Plitscher is the Leader. There are n instruments, and the members practice regularly and are well organized.

I. O. O. F., Kirkw9od Lodge, No. 675, was started Nov. 17, 1880. J. P. March, James B. Butler, Thos. W. Beers and Jacob J. Yager were the charter members. This Lodge has a very good hall, which is well furnished, and the lodge is well equipped and in good working condition.

I from Henderson County. The majority of them afterwards withdrew and formed a Post at Oquawka. Later on, many of the comrades who belonged to Monmouth Township, started a Post in Monmouth City. The Kirkwood Post is one of the best in this part of the country. They have a good hall, which is well furnished and equipped, and they are in the most flourishing condition. Since their first organization they have enlisted 194 comrades. The "old boys" of this part of the country do not forget the incidents and associations connected with the late war, nor the patriotism that inspired them to shoulder their muskets, leave their home and kindred, and offer up their lives on the altar of their country. The present officers of the Post are ; J. M. Dennis, C. ; J. S. Glover, S. V. C. ; A. Edwards, J. V.. C. ; S. G. Baggett, O. D. ; J. C. Berry, O. G. ; J. H. Gilmore, Q. M.; W. M. Glover, Chaplain; R. R. Davison, Adj. The Post meets the first and third Mondays of each month, and since their organization have never failed, to have a quorum for the transaction of business.

Press

Kirkwood has been quite a little graveyard for newspaper enterprises. The Monmouth Atlas had a branch office here, and printed a special edition for Kirkwood, in 1867. It did not prove profitable, and the project was abandoned. In 1868, Judson Graves concluded to embark in the newspaper world, and deal with plain facts as well as fancies, under the title of Kirkwood Plaindealer. It was a weekly paper, sixcolumn folio, Republican in politics. It continued for about three years, laboring for the enlightenment of the denisens of Kirkwood, but failing to produce that degree of enlightenment necessary for its continuation in Kirkwood, it made its bow to the town, and struck out for a new field of labor, landing at Galesburg, where it appeared rehabilitated as the Galesburg Plaindealer.

The Kirkwood News was the next to seek the favor of the people, whom it desired especially to bless. This daring adventurer was W. H. Leedham. His sheet went forth to the public, June, 1875. It was a six-column folio, issued every week, and independent in politics. Subsequently, it was enlarged to a seven-column paper. Whether the publishers were attracted to this place as a rich journalistic field, or to it as a cemetery where burial services would be performed with facility and cheapness, his- 1 tory does not inform us; but no sooner was the News launched upon the journalistic sea, than the Kirk- | wood Enterprise appeared, with sails all set, bearing right down upon her bow with an order for her to fold her sheets or "pi'" her columns. A compromise was effected by the Neics selling out to the Enterprise. The Enterprise was started by Everett & Bros. At first it was rather a small sheet, but was afterwards enlarged to a six-column folio. It was independent in politics, and liberal in religious matters. It closed its career very happily in the fall of 1880, and the autumn very generously covered its grave with her leaves.

In March, 1880, Barnes and Smaley established the Kirkwood Leader. It was an eight-column folio, issued every Wednesday, and was independent in politics. The firm published the Leader eight months, and then sold out to Bradshaw & Hook. With the new and bright year, 1885, Mr. Charles Bradshaw became sole proprietor and editor. He is a newspaper man with considerable experience, the tide is in his favor, the rocks, reefs and shoals in the journalistic sea have been passed, and his venture is a success. The Leader is ably edited, has a good circulation, is a credit to the town and should be liberally supported.

the members of this society held a meeting and discussed the question of an organization. The result of this meeting was the appointment of a committee, upon solicitation by the Schuyler Presbytery, to assist in the formation of a society. The committee consisted of the Rev. J. H. Nevins, Dr. R. C. Matthews, Hiram Norcross and James Boggs, who went about their work with great zeal, and completed the organization with 26 members, which they styled, " South Henderson Church." The first pastor installed was Rev. J. H. Nevins, who served the Church one year. The first Elders were Alex. M. Harvey, Nathan Carr and Jacob Ackerman. Rev. W. L. Lyons succeeded Mr. Nevins, and remained in the work over three years. While Mr. Lyons was in charge, they erected their first house of worship. It was a small frame structure, and stood in the south part of the town. They then had supply preaching for some years. In 1865 Rev. J. W. Allen was secured; he was an able, energetic and zealous man, and through his efforts,

, supported by a liberal congregation, the present building was completed. It is a fine, large, imposing structure, of Gothic architecture, well finished, and

I Allen resigned, and was followed by Rev. G. N. Johnson as a supply, and also by J. H. Marshall. In 1884 Rev. E. W. Thompson accepted a call, and is still with the Church. Present membership is about too, with an interesting Sabbath-school, of about the same number.

United Presbyterian Church. - The first preaching in the community was supplied by the Rev. Marion Morrison, who preached in a school house adjacent to the town for about one year, before a congregation was organized. The first meeting looking toward an organization was at the home of Mr. J. S. Paris. March i, 1858, Boon's Hall was secured as a place for worship. The Presbytery provided them with preaching during the summer and autumn, and, on Nov. 4, 1858, a commission of Presbytery, consisting of the Rev. D. A. Wallace and Elders M. B. Campbell and J. W. Woods, met at the Centre School-house and organized the congregation with 15 members. At this meeting three Elders were elected - J. W. Woods, Leander Lindly and Mathew Wood. At the next meeting of the commissioners, Nov. 20, same year, for the ordination and installation of the Elders-elect, J. H. Martin was also chosen Elder. The name of the congregation at this time of the organization was that of Young America. It was changed to Kirkwood early in 1875. They met for worship, for five years in rented halls. In 1861 they took steps toward building a place of worship. They had it finished for worship Nov. 7, 1863. It is a neat church, with a capacity of about 300, costing about $2,800. Rev. S. N. Moore served the congregation from June 13, 1863, to February, 1864. He was not ordained nor installed, on account of being adjudged by the Presbytery, at the time of his trial for ordination, guilty of heresy, at which time his license was withdrawn. Rev. J. B. Foster began his labors June, 1864, and resigned his pastorate the last of August, 1867, to connect himself with the Presbyterian Church. He was succeeded by Rev. Wm. J. McSurley, who began his labors in October, 1867. He resigned to connect himself with the Presbyterian Church, Dec. 31, 1868. Rev. J. M. Waddel was next called to take charge, in the spring of 1869, and he also resigned, in 1876, to connect with the Presbyterian Church. He was succeeded by Rev. L. N. Laferty, July 8, 1877. Mr. Laferty resigned Dec. 30, 1883, to accept an appointment by the Home Mission Board, at Creston, Iowa. In March, 1884, Rev. Wm. McConnell was called, and was installed April 24, 1884, and is still with the Church. The present membership numbers 230. A large Sabbath-school is attached to this congregation.

Baptist Church. - The members of this Church met Oct. 12, 1855, for the purpose of organization. This society was organized and called the Lyndon Baptist Church. It was organized by Rev. James Hovey, with ten members; Mr. Hovey was the first pastor. It was then in the Salem Association, but was subsequently changed to the Peoria Association. Succeeding Mr. Hovey, in December, 1864, was Rev. B. F. Caldwell, who remained until the close of 1866. He was followed by Rev. E. J. Lockwood, who served until about the ist of June, 1869, when he was succeeded by Rev. H. E.Norton. Mr. Norton remained until February, 1871, when Rev. Henry Taylor was called, who served the Church until November, 1872. In January, 1873, Rev. Mr. Seward assumed the pastoral chair, remaining until 1875, and was followed by the Rev. Mr. Fuller, who served until August, 1878. He was succeeded by Rev. E. G. Cheverton, who remained until August, 1880. They were served by supplies then for awhile. In

July, 1882, the Rev. Mr. Depperman was secured. He was the last pastor, serving until 1884. They have a very good church, which cost $1,500. Present membership about 42.

The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized here in 1856, at the Young America Hotel, by Rev. O. S. Swartz. In the first class formed, there were John and Elizabeth Ramsdell, Mary E. Youmas, Daniel and Matilda Tinker, Oliver and Rachel Hall, William and Margaret Roberts. The first pastor who took charge of this Church was Rev. James Tubbs; following him were Revs. C. Springer, B. C. Couch, M. Spurlock, J. J. Flaherty, Samuel Fisher, Jesse Smith, C. H. Bruce. A house of worship was erected in 1865, costing, with grounds and parsonage, about $8,000. It was dedicated by Dr. Eddy, To Rev. Jas. Tubbs, the credit in a great measure is due for the completion of this building. The; have a good membership and a large and interestin; Sabbath-school.

We regret that we are unable to give a more ful account of the history of this Church, but the pastoi who promised, and on whom we relied for information regarding its organization, growth and preset condition, failed in his promises, and hence our history is not as complete as it otherwise might have been. A historian has to depend upon written anc traditional matter for his works, and when the former is meagre and the latter unobtainable, his histories must of necessity be incomplete.

HE City of Mon mouth may be considered to have been founded when the commissioners, John G. Sanburn, Hazen Bedell, and John McNeil, appointed under an Act of the General Assembly, established at this point a permanent seat of Justice, which was approved Jan. 27, 1830.. Its settlement was started by pioneers moving in from different parts of ihis and Henderson Counties, the first coming in being Daniel Mc- Neil, Elijah Davidson, and Joel Hargrove. They were soon followed by John Pence, Peter Butler, John B. Talbott, Wm. S. Pax- Its location is within about four may be more particularly described as being situated on the southeast quarter of section 29, in township i j, north of range 2 west, of the 4th P. M. In making their report the Commissioners stated, that they believed 'the location selected by them was "Congress land." To this location they gave the name of Monmouth. The site was chosen on the 7th day of April, i83r, and was accepted by the County Commissioners. It is a matter of history that the County Commissioners were not satisfied with the name of Monmouth nor the location of the County seat, and one of them threatened to nullify it. But the Calhoun doctrine had not then been introduced into the politics or government of Illinois, and the action of the Commissioners held good. The survey of the town was let to the lowest bidder, who was Peter Butler, at 22% cents per lot, April 25, 1831. The work of " Peter Butler, Surveyor," was accepted by the County Commissioners, June 6, 1831. The seat of Justice had been temporarily located at Oquawka, but no session of Court had been held there. Monmouth was platted by Peter Butler in 1836, and certified by him Sept. 8th following. A patent was given to this one quarter section, by the U. S. Government, to John Pence, Peter Butler, and John B. Talbott, Feb. 12, 1836, and was signed by that grand old patriot, President Andrew Jackson. Daniel McNeil, Jr., was appointed Commissioner by the County Court with power to sell and deed lots to purchasers.

Upon petition being sent to the Postmaster-General asking that a postoffice be established in the county, Daniel McNeil, Jr. was appointed Postmaster of Warren Court House as it was called. This name was given that the mail might be taken whereever the seat of Justice was located. The appointment was made in the spring of 1831, but the mails were delayed in coming and did not arrive until June, and at that time Monmouth had been located as the seat of Justice and the mail was opened here, which was the first in the county. Warren Buffun had been appointed Postmaster at Cedar Creek in the winter of 1831, but owing to delay above mentioned, no mail was received here until June, when it came through to Monmouth postoffice.

It is said of Daniel McNeil, (who held nearly all of the offices in the town and county) that he used to carry the postoffice in his hat, and if he met a citizen for whom he had a letter, he would doff his hat and hand him his mail. Postage in those days was 25 cents and unpaid. The good Daniel, however, would not withhold the letter if a person did not have the postage; and it is said that he had settled, from his own pocket, some heavy bills with the postoffice department. The pioneers would jestingly, and with truth say, that McNeil was always in his office. It has been previously said that he held about all the offices in the county, so many in fact that it made him poor and he was obliged to earn bread for his family. When out, his good dame would act as his deputy. Daniel McNeil lived where John Carr's house now stands, on Broadway, on the edge of the ravine. It was the first cabin put up in the town. The first tavern wis located on Broadway below the Court House Square on the opposite side of the street in block 20. This famous hostelry, which still stands afler the lapse of half a century, was a double log house with an attic, and was opened by James M. Garrison, in the fall of 1831. Surviving its need for hotel purposes and having been occupied for various uses of man, it finally came into possession of W. S. Paxon, a worthy pioneer, who now uses it as a blacksmith shop. The first couple married in Garrison's Inn were Caesar Love and Venus McCormick (colored) Feb. 25, 1836. In this hotel E. S. Swinney used to lodge. He had his bunk directly under the roof in the northwest corner. To look at this corner now one would be inclined to sympathize with Bro. Swinney, and think he had a close time of it

The second couple married in the town were Josiah Whitman and Hannah Davidson, Oct. 12, 1832. The first marriage in the county was that of Samuel White and Huldah Jennings by John B. Talbott, J. P., May 10, 1831.

W. S. Paxton broke the first ground in the town for Daniel McNeil, who planted the first crop. Mc- Neil had his first official building east of the Bank on Broadway.

According to Joel Hargrove, Wm. S. Paxon opened the first store in the town, in the spring of 1831, where Scott & Bros', grocery house now stands. was in a little wickup, or round shanty, built with poles, mud and straw.

Robert Black was the pioneer in the school department in this town, opening a school in the summer of 1831. The second school was opened by Alpheus Russell.

Thomas B. Cull urn was licensed to keep a store at Monmouth, July 4, 1831, and he celebrated Independence day by opening his little stock of goods for sale to the settlers. He was followed in October by Joel Hargrove, and in December by Elijah Davidson.

June 6, 1831, the sale of lots by order of the Commissioners took place. The order read : " The highest and best bidder to be the purchaser, providing the large or ' outlets ' be not sold unless the bid offered should amount to at least $2 per acre ; the bid on the ' inlots ' be not sold for less than $4 per lo', and those adjoining the Public Square not to be sold unless the bid offered be at least not less than $10 per lot. There was ' realized from the sale of lots this day $965.62."

port came of the rising of Black Hawk's band. This alarmed the settlement very much and some families left the town. After consultation it was decided that forts be built and that the settlers come together for mutual protection. Accordingly one fort was built about a mile from town, and another at Peter Butler's place a few miles from the settlement.

With the increase of population came a desire to have a corporate government of some kind, and Daniel McNeil, Jr., took the lead in this movement. Finally notices were posted about the town informing the legal voters that a meeting would be held Nov. 29, 1836, at the school-house, to determine this question. The proceedings were under the general law of this State, approved Feb. 12, 1831, which was entitled an " Act to incorporate the inhabitants of such towns as may wish to be incorporated." At the election Elijah Davidson was chosen President of the meeting and Henry Jennings to act as Clerk. The objects of the meeting having been fully set forth by the Chairman, Mr. Davidson, voting was announced to be in order. There were 23 votes cast in all for incorporation, there being none in opposition. When the result of this election was made known, an election for Town Trustees was ordered for Dec. 5th following. At the December election Elijah Davidson, Daniel McNeil, Jr., James McCallon, Alexander Ritchey and George H. Wright were elected Trustees. A meeting of the Trustees was duly held at which Daniel McNeil was chosen President of the Board, and Henry Jennings. Clerk and Treasurer.

The first meeting of the Board after organization was at the house of James McCallon, Dec. 26, when they passed their first ordinance, which was as follows : " Be it ordered by the President and Trustees of the town of Monmouth in council convened that the corporation be one-half mile east, one-half mile west, one-half mile south, and one-half mile north from the center of the Public Square, containing one mile square.'1

The village continued to grow and prosper, fine blocks went up and large business houses and manufactories were established and the future development of Monmouth seemed to be assured. With an increased population came a desire among the citizens for a city government. Accordingly a bill was presented to the Legislature for this purpose. It was passed and received the approval of the Governor, June 21, 1852, the first section of which read as follows : " Be it enacted by the people of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly, that the inhabitants of the town of Monmouth, in the county of Warren, and State of Illinois, be and are hereby constituted a body politic and corporate by the name and style of the City of Monmouth, and by that name shall have perpetual succession, and may have and use a common seal which they may change and alter at pleasure." The second provision of this bill fixed the boundaries of the corporation which was to extend one mile each way from the Public Square ; and the third section provided for the division of the city into two wards. The election under this act was held Oct. 23d, 1852, at which Samuel Wood was elected Mayor. N. A. Rankin, Secretary; E. S. Swinney, James Thomp-' son and William Rodgers, Aldermen. The officerselect met Nov. 3, and organized the Council by appointing E. F. Corwin, Clerk; G. W. Savage, at-"% torney ; James Thompson, Treasurer, and James Finney, Marshal.

Ivory Quinby opened the first bank in this town, which was a private institution. In r862 the First National Bank was established, which was the 38th established in the United States. In 1872 C. Jones & Co. opened their private bank, which was subsequently merged into the Monmouth National Bank. Later on the Second National Bank was established. With one exception these banks have all been successful, and have had a good standing in the financial world. This exception is too well known by the people of Monmouth to need any comments or explanations in this work. Suffice it to say that aged men and women, once in affluent circumstances, lost everything through the action of a man, who to-day is within the four walls of the penitentiary.

In the suburbs of Monmouth are located Doctor Vanhoorebeke's stables, which were established over 20 years ago. Dr. Vanhoorebeke was one of the first to introduce imported slock into this State, and in the line of his business has crossed the ocean 98 times. He breeds entirely from pure French horses, and mostly from imported stock. For fine draft horses Dr. Vanhoorebeke's stables are unexcelled by any in the State. He has a ready sale for all his stock, and at high figures. In the line of introducing good draft horses into the county and State, the Doctor has been a benefactor. A visit at his stables is a treat which any lover of good horses will enjoy.

The city is well and ably represented in the medical line by Drs. J. W. Brewer, H. L. Harrington, S. M. Hamilton, J. R. Webster, H. Marshall, J. H. Wallace, W. S. Holliday, S. K. Crawford, W. E.Taylor and E. C. Linn. With this able array of medical men and those reliable druggists, Spriggs & Bros., and W. M. Schultz & Co., Monmouth is pretty well fortified against sickness or epidemics.

The city of Monmouth has a very good Opera House, which is one of the features of the town. It was erected by Mr. Schultz in 1875, at a cost of about $50,000, including the store-houses below. It is a favorite place of amusement for the people of this city.

There are many fine business blocks in the city, as well as a number of beautiful residences. Some of the church buildings are very creditable, and even an ornament to the place. The public buildings, however, with the exception of the jail, are about as inferior as any in the State.

Monmouth is beautifully situated and well laid out, with a square or plaza in the center. The streets run in regular parallel lines and are adorned with handsome shade trees. The town is dotted over with elegant residences and comfortable homes. The people, as a class, are intelligent and industrious. If marked by any particular phase of character, it is that of being rather set in their notions ; and it may be, too, that some of the inhabitants are a little prescriptive and Pharisaical. The population of Monmouth is estimated to be at the present time about 5,500.

Upon the completion of the C. B. & Q. Railroad through Monmouth, in 1855, quite an impetus was given to the growth of the town, and from that time on its growth has been steady With the completion of the railroad some very important manufactories were established in Monmouth.

Industrial Interests

Weir Plow Company. - At an early date the inventive brain of W. S. Weir began to conceive of a better way for cultivating corn than with a hoe. He soon brought his ideas into practical operation. In 1859 he completed a plow which, upon a test being had, proved successful. After some further alterations and improvements he had his cultivator patented in 1862. Later on a factory was established, and the first year 400 cultivators were made. The year following he turned out some 500 cultivators. In 1869 a company incorporated as the Weir Plow Company, with & capital stock of $25,000. The members of this company were W. S. Weir, William Hanna, W. B. Boyd and Joseph Stephenson. The site was secured for the factory near the C. B. & Q. Railroad, and suitable buildings were erected.

Since then several changes have been made in the company, and many improvements made in the plow and cultivator. Extensive buildings have been put up for manufacturing purposes, which have been filled with the most complete and best machinery. They occupy now, with buildings and grounds, about four acres, and manufacture a full line of agricultural implements, such as cultivators, plows, double shovels and harrows. The capital stock has been increased to $500,000, and the present stock-holders are W. S. Weir, William Hanna, Delos Phelps and J. Ross Hanna.

Active work generally begins about the first of October, and closes in June. They employ from three to four hundred hands, and their trade extends into all the Western and Southwestern States, Ohio, Indiana and also into Mexico. Most of their timber is from Kentucky and Missouri. This Weir Plow Company has been a great auxiliary to the growth of Monmouth. The superior qualities of their agricultural implements are known and appreciated throughout the country.

The Pattee Plow Company was another establishment which has aided materially to the growth of Monmouth. It was established in 1875, under the this firm were James H. Pattee, Henry H. Pattee and I. P. Pillsbury. They started with the manufacture of the "New Departure" Tongueless Cultivator, of which Mr. Pattee was the inventor. In 1 88 1, they incorporated, with a capital stock of $10,000. James H. Pattee is President, I. P. Pillsbury, Vice-President, and H. H. Pattee, Secretary ' and Treasurer. During the manufacturing season, \ this establishment employs about 100 men, and manufacture principally the Tongueless Cultivator, the ' Combined Walking and Riding Cultivator, and the Cotton Planter. Their Tongueless Cultivator was patented in 1872, by J. H. Pattee. At this time, a tongueless cultivator was unknown, and like all men who present new ideas or new inventions, Mr. Pattee was the subject for much ridicule. But with Mr. Pattee, like all other brainy men, who have an idea or an invention to present for the benefit of the world, the shafts of ridicule fell harmless upon him. f If it had been a failure, people would have said, " I I told you so." Having been a success, it would be I more difficult now to find a man who did not say, - "he knew it would be a success," than it was for Diogenes of old to find with his lamp an honest man.

>- Monmouth Mining and Manufacturing Company. - Following on in the development of the city, we come to this company, which was established in 1872, by Messrs. A. M. Black and J. M. White. Subsequently it became the property of those worthy citizens, Spriggs & Bros., who carried on the work for several years. In 1872, it was incorporated, with a capital stock of $350,000. W. H. Koonce was elected President ; B. T. Hubbard, Secretary ; J. S. Spriggs, Treasurer. In 1874,1)16 capital stock was increased to $100,000, and G. B. Henderson luckily succeeded B. T. Hubbard as Secretary. In 1875, J. H. Spriggs was elected President, and, in 1866, Mr. D. D. Parry succeeded Mr. Spriggs. In 1877, William Hanna became President, with J. H. Spriggs, Vice-President, and J. 3. Spriggs, Treasurer. In 1884, Mr. Hanna bought out Spriggs & Bros, stock, and with his son, J. Ross Hanna, now controls the establishment. When the enterprise was first started, it was expected coal mining would be carried on extensively with the pipe and tiling business. It was found, however, that the coal veins were limited, and that part of the business has been abandoned. Mr. Hanna has greatly enlarged the capacity for manufacturing tile, and has now in this establishment some of the largest kilns in the country. They have 22 acres appropriated for the use of the works, the buildings covering about two acres. The clay beds are from 70 to 100 feet down, and furnish an excellent quality of clay. About 1,000 car loads of tile are manufactured yearly, and 500 bushels of coal are used daily. From 65 to 75 hands are constantly employed at this establishment.

Reimer Lahann. While speaking of the industrial elements which have so materially advanced the prosperity of Monmouth, the cigar factory of Reimer Lahann should be mentioned. Mr. Lahann started his factory in 1860, with no capital other than a strong heart, energetic mind, and a sympathetic wife, who was truly a help-mate. His business has steadily increased, until last year he manufactured 1,500,000 cigars. By the close of this year he expects to make 1,8000,000. He employs from 30 to 40 hands.

The first public school opened in Monmouth, in , 1834. The County Commissioners acting under a ] petition signed by several citizens, established the boundary of the first school district, which they] called No. i, which included the town of Monmouth. A building was erected on the site now occupied by the Methodist Church. This school was opened in June, and was held three months, at an expense of less than $50. At this period there were 50 children in the settlement between the age of 5 and 12 years, and of this number 25 attended the schools. It was not long before this building was insufficient to meet the demand of the increasing number of pupils, and a new building was erected. This new building soon was inadequate to meet the wants of the population, and other buildings were put up, and private schools were also opened. Ward schools were finally established, the educational advantages were extended, and systems of instruction were improved from time to time up to the present period. The public schools of Monmouth are now divided up into four districts, or wards, having one school for each ward in the city. They are all graded and provided with good teachers.

West Ward School, presided over by Miss L. B. Duer as Principal, who is assisted by the Misses J.S. Wiley, F. E. Sterret, Ida Matthews and M. Kinkead. Enrollment, 207.

North Ward. In this school Miss M. A. Sterrett is Principal, and the Misses Minnie S. Nelson, Jennie McBrown, Anna Peacock, and Mrs. M. D. Sterrett are Assistants. Enrollment, 243.

South Ward. Miss W. Scott is Principal of this school With her are the Misses Jessie K. Babcock, A. Fleming,Sadie Parkinson, Delia Caldwell and Maggie McDill, with an enrollment of 268.

The school buildings are inferior, old, with large cracks in the walls, and are not, some of them at least, very safe. Take them altogether for a city with the wealth of Monmouth, they are not at all creditable. Some day, if they are not torn down, they will be tumbling down, burying beneath their ruins innocent children.

Monmouth College

This College was founded by the Reform Associate Presbytery of Illinois, and was first started as an Academy. It was established as a Church institution, and has continued so. In 1856, it was converted into a College, when Trustees were appointed. In 1847, it was incorporated under the name and style of ''The Monmouth College." This act was amended in 1859, vesting the control of the College with the United Presbyterian Synod. It was further amended in 1869, establishing a more liberal government, and providing for the admission of other bodies to its constituency.

After several changes, additions and improvements, they have now a fine school building, three stories high, and constructed of brick, costing altogether about $35,000. The building is well furnished and the rooms are commodious. All the facilities for a thorough collegiate education have been provided, which includes a good faculty. After several experiments, a liberal endowment fund has been secured, upon a practical basis. This College is well patronized by the people of the county, and on its roll there are many students from other parts of the State.

in the county. It was established by C. K. Smith, and its first sheet was issued to the reading public Oct. 30, 1846. Mr. Byron was the editor. At that time it was a six-column folio paper and was issued every Saturday. It is a rare treat to peruse its old pages, every column of which is full of interesting matter. It was issued about the time of the beginning of the Mexican War, and its early issues are replete with the descriptions of the battles of Cero Gordo, Monterey, etc. Jan. i, 1844, the publishing day was changed to Friday. In October, 1857, Mr. John S. Clark purchased the Atlas, and has edited it from that time to the present. In 1860 it was increased to an eight-column paper. In September, 1884, a daily was started, and this venture has been eminently successful. The Atlas has a circulation of about 1,600, and a good job office is connected with the paper. It is Republican in politics, and is a well edited, bright and newsy journal, and a credit to the county. It is an unusual thing to find a man who has been in the editorial chair as long as Mr. Clark.

Monmouth Review. - The first issue of this paper j was made Dec. 28, 1855, by A H. Swain, its founder -< and editor. It came out pretty fully fledged at first, having seven columns and issued every Friday. It was started about the time of the dissolution of the Whig party and the formation of the Republican party, which has since been so potent a factor in American politics, and was devoted to the principles of the Democratic party and the interests of Warren County. In 1856 it was an ardent advocate of the claims of James Buchanan for the Presidency. It was loyal to the Union and to the country during the war. In 1866 it was enlarged to an eight-column paper, its present size. It has a circulation now of about 1,200, which is constantly increasing. The plant contains a steam-power press and a fine job office. The Review has never changed its editor nor proprietor, nor its politics ; and it never has failed to make its appearance on publication day, which now covers a period of 30 years. There are but few papers in the country that have been under so long and continuous a management. It is neatly gotten up, ably edited, and zealously devoted to the interests of its patrons. Mr. Swain says he started his paper on a quarter of a dollar and has got that quarter yet. Amid the many changes of this life, it is pleasant once in a while to meet a man who has

The Monmouth Weekly Gazette, was established in 1876, by G. G. McCosh, an experienced newspaper man. It was started as a seven-column folio, issued every Wednesday. In 1883 it was enlarged to a nine-column folio, its present size. Mr. McCosh having been prosperous in his weekly venture, and believing there was an opening for a daily, concluded to start one. With this man, to think was to act, and in February, 1883, he sent forth his daily sheet, which he called The Evening Gazette. The editor has had no occasion to regret his action, for the daily Gazette has been a prosperous enterprise. The circulation of this paper is from 1,000 to 1,200 per week and is increasing. The Gazette is independent in politics, is lively in its editorial department and is full of interesting reading matter. A good job office is connected with the paper, where first-class work can always be secured. The presses are moved by steam. The genial editor is always ready to make new friends and welcome the old ones. Being comparatively young in the editorial chair, he even now displays rare ability as an editor, and we expect to see the day when he will be among the distinguished journalists of the State.